Key Takeaways

• There have been significant advances in metering since the traditional meter, including the introduction of smart meters. Smart meters measure how much and when energy is consumed and can be read, disconnected, and reconnected remotely.

• Electricity rates are typically set on a multi-year basis through an extensive review process involving the utility, the associated regulatory body, and key stakeholders. Billing rates can be based on amount of consumption as well as time of use.

• Distributed Energy Resources are sources of electricity connected to a local distribution system that can store or generate electricity or adjust consumption. Canadian utilities are modernizing the grid to cope with the increase of DERs.

• Energy storage involves capturing electricity when it is produced so that it can be used later. Common energy storage methods are hydro reservoirs, pumped hydro, and batteries, among others.

• Electric car sales are increasing as the transportation sector works toward the goal of zero emissions by 2035. The shift to electric vehicles involves meeting increasing demand, supporting growth, updating regulations, and preparing the grid.

MODULE 6 THE CUSTOMER

Welcome to Module 6: The Customer.

By the end of this module, you should be able to:

• Explain the concepts of “good customer service” and “good customer experience”

• Describe the different tools that utilities use to enable a good customer experience

This course uses images, audio, and text; content will appear on your screen as you scroll through the module. Keyboard navigation instructions will be provided for those who are not using a mouse or touchscreen. There is a short, graded assessment at the end.

This module should take approximately 17 minutes to complete.

Lesson list

6.1 Introduction

Electricity Canada | Electricity Fundamental in Canada: Student Handbook 80 066.2 Emerging Customer Tools